We’ve all had those days—days where you wake up, see the weather, and vow to get outside—but eight hours later, the sun has set and you haven’t even gotten out of bed other than to eat or go to the bathroom. Maybe you just didn’t want to, but maybe you did, and now you feel like you’ve wasted the day. Not to fear! Tomorrow is a new day, and chances are, it’ll still be really nice out. 

The hardest part to getting outside is getting out of bed, but the second hardest part is figuring out what to do. Once you’ve hauled yourself out of your soft cloud of bed where everything is nice, safe, and comfortable, there’s a couple things you have to consider: how much time do you have? How much energy? What’s the weather like? Do you have transportation? What do you really want to do, anyways? What even is there to do? If you find yourself asking these questions, consider the following activities.

Hiking, Biking, and Boating

1. Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary

Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful swath of land surrounding the Charles River on the Natick/Sherborn border. As part of the Mass Audubon network of wildlife sanctuaries all around Massachusetts, Broadmoor boasts nine miles of well-groomed trails, including an accessible All-Persons Trail, boardwalks, and covered outlooks. It is also home to over 175 species of birds, making it a popular spot for birders, and many different kinds of wildlife including turtles, swans, chipmunks, and snakes. Located at 280 Eliot Street in Natick, the visitor center is open from 9-5 on all days but Mondays, and the trails are open from dawn to dusk every day. There is a modest admission fee for non-Mass Audubon members, $6 for adults and $4 for children and seniors, but it is well worth the wealth of nature opened to you. In addition to trails, Broadmoor also offers many educational programs for children, adults, and families. Make sure to bring sunblock, bugspray, water, and a snack, and be aware that pets are not allowed on the trail.

2. Pegan Hill

Part of the Trustees of Reservations system of nature areas, Pegan Hill is the highest point in Natick, reaching 410 feet. While the Trustees-owned area contains only one mile of trail, the trail connects to a larger loop of trails on conserved lands that is accessible to the public. Despite the short distance, Pegan Hill is a beautiful hike that will take you through both fields and woods with a little elevation. Pegan Hill is open year-round, from sunrise to sunset, and is free. There is no visitor center, but there is a bulletin board containing a large trail map and warnings concerning recent changes or dangers. It is located up Pegan Lane and has a small parking lot. 

3. Cochituate Rail Trail

The Cochituate Rail Trail (CRT) is a recently opened 4-mile multi-use paved trail that runs from Navy Field in Natick to Saxonville in Framingham. It’s a great trail for biking, running, walking, and many more activities. For the most part, this trail goes through the woods, creating a very nature-like feel despite being close to major roads. The CRT also connects to Lake Cochituate and the surrounding state park, which has picnic tables, a boat launch, boats for rent, a swimming area, bathrooms, and a hiking trail. Navy Field is also quite close to downtown Natick and Natick High School (NHS), so it is easy to access. The CRT also connects to the Natick Mall area, and has many small outlets onto the street in different areas, allowing people to get on and leave the trail when they like. It is always open and there is no fee. 

Swimming

1. Memorial Beach/Dug Pond

Of course, this list would not be complete without the popular beach on Dug Pond, located right between NHS and the senior lot/football field. A must-do at least once this summer, Memorial Beach is a safe swimming area complete with lifeguards and a snack stand. The water is also routinely tested for harmful substances and is safe to swim in inside the roped-off swimming area (don’t worry about the murkiness of the water–that’s what pond water should look like). While it does require an admission fee, season passes are available and residents get a discount. Memorial Beach is open 12 pm - 6pm (on weekdays) or 7 pm (on weekends), and will open for the season on June 16th. The rest of Dug Pond and a boat launch across from the senior lot is open to the public for free. Dug Pond (outside of the Memorial Beach area) is not tested for harmful bacteria/chemicals, however, so enter the water at your own risk.

2. Cochituate State Park

Cochituate State Park in Natick is a great place to go swimming, as well as boating, hiking, picnicking, and more. It has multiple swim areas watched by lifeguards that are close to picnic areas, bathrooms, and trails. Additionally, it is free, and also has parking available for a modest rate. Cochituate State Park is connected to the CRT, and has multiple boat launches and boats for rental, making it a great location not just for swimmers but for everyone. 

Culture

1. Natick Nights

For a less energy-consuming activity, try Natick Nights, every Thursday night during June and July. Natick Nights are a sprawling festival with food, music, shopping, and activities for all ages. With both permanent and pop-up vendors lining the streets of downtown Natick, you will be sure to find something that interests you, from candy shops to craft stands. Many permanent vendors offer discounts or specials for Natick Nights, and there is always music and performances on the common from local groups. 

2. Farmers Market

The Natick Farmers Market is a pop-up market occurring on the common every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm. Along with traditional farmer’s market goods and produce, there are also prepared food stalls, craft/jewelry stalls, and drinks for sale. All these tents surround the gazebo, where a local band performs music all day long. Be sure to check out stands like Amir’s Mediterranean Food for delicious spanakopita and grape leaves, Joyberry Farms for the mountains of creatively-used mushrooms, and whatever else looks good. All the vendors and shoppers are wonderful people, and you’re sure to see (or make!) a friend or two on these Saturday mornings.

3. Outdoor Reading Room 

New this year, the Morse Institute Library will have three temporary outdoor reading rooms where patrons can study, eat, read, or just relax. The reading rooms will have access to the library’s free wifi and are physically accessible to all. During their season, from June to August, events will be held both by the library and outside groups in these rooms, and library materials will occasionally be available. Even better, the rooms are also art installations created by local artists with sculptural seating and design, making you part of the art.